A 40-foot shipping container in Dededo is turning heads by growing fresh lettuce, aiming to tackle Guam’s food security challenges. This innovative approach offers lettuce harvested just hours before reaching customers at prices lower than imported options.
Sunny Grow Inc., which started in March, is Guam’s new venture into vertical farming. Previous attempts faltered due to high electricity costs and logistical issues. However, Vice President Yi Yuan believes their strategy, inspired by systems in mainland China, will succeed.
Currently, about 85% to 95% of Guam’s food is imported. For instance, a head of butter lettuce can cost over $4.69 locally, influenced by shipping and storage. In contrast, Sunny Grow sells theirs for just $2.50 to $3, with the hope of dropping prices further as they expand operations.
The operation recently celebrated its first harvest in June. Each growing cycle produces around 3,800 heads of lettuce in just 30 days. The container houses five planting layers, illuminated by LED lights and monitored remotely for optimal growing conditions.
Yuan explained that one or two staff members can manage daily tasks thanks to a digital control system powered by Starlink internet. This allows them to monitor everything from home, making operations efficient.
Sunny Grow currently sells to a local store near Micronesia Mall, as well as directly to consumers. Permitting was surprisingly smooth, with local officials recognizing their unique business model.
Electricity costs pose a significant challenge. The container requires air conditioning and lights, leading to monthly bills around $600. However, Yuan plans to install solar panels, which could cut expenses by 70% to 80%. A proposed solar setup could generate energy during daylight and rely on the grid at night.
David Crisostomo, an aquaculture specialist at the University of Guam, highlighted the importance of solar energy for making container farming profitable. He noted, “Power control is critical when maintaining optimal growth conditions.”
While Crisostomo hasn’t worked with Sunny Grow directly, he noted that the integration of tested technology with Guam’s unique economic environment presents distinct challenges. Water consumption is manageable, as their hydroponic system recycles over 90% of its water.
Looking forward, Sunny Grow aims to stabilize operations and finalize solar installations. Within two years, they plan to add another container and explore growing a variety of crops, such as strawberries and mushrooms.
Yuan envisions container farms throughout Guam—near schools or even on ships. They aim to offer subscription services for regular delivery of fresh produce, enabling customers to pick their own vegetables from multiple containers.
The path to success hinges on overcoming previous challenges tied to operational costs and revenue generation. “We believe we can outlast others due to our lower costs,” Yuan stated. “But our ability to grow swiftly depends on community support.”
Crisostomo remains optimistic, noting that advancements in technology and decreasing solar costs may be the key to making these operations succeed. “Now might be the right time for this,” he said. “Everything is changing quickly, and we must adapt.”
This innovative approach to agriculture could shape Guam’s future food landscape, offering fresh, affordable produce while supporting local economies. For more insights into sustainable farming practices, you can explore resources from the USDA on Urban Agriculture.
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aquaponics, energy, agriculture, solar power, sustainable technologies, primary sector of the economy, hydroponics, vertical farming, photovoltaic system
